Seagrass is one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, but seagrass meadows around the UK have declined by 95% in the last 100 years. Work is taking place across the Solent to restore this precious habitat, and your help is needed here in Chichester Harbour! Read on to find out how you can […]
In July 2023, an independent report was commissioned into options for the future of the failing sea defences at the bottom of Wade Lane, near Langstone Millpond. The consultants, Royal HaskoningDHV have finalised the report; it can be read in full on the Coastal Partners website here. Chichester Harbour Conservancy, along with all members of […]
The Return of the Tern Project was initiated in 2021. It was a nature recovery initiative to restore the breeding population of terns to Chichester Harbour. It followed the Natural England SSSI Condition Review which found Chichester Harbour to be in an unfavourable declining condition. In the wake of the report, the Friends of Chichester […]
Within the shores of Chichester Harbour sits a superhero. Part land, part sea, its lower reaches obscured as the tide washes in, are swathes of SUPER SALTMARSH! This habitat hero is fringed by mudflats; from a distance saltmarsh looks green and grassy, criss-crossed with tiny creeks. It is often overlooked by the casual observer. But […]
On Tuesday 26 September we received reports of several dead gamebirds washed up on the southern part of the Bosham peninsular. Our ecologist and rangers investigated; they found and removed at least 60 dead grey partridges from the shoreline. They had been in the water no longer than 24 hours. Grey partridges are gamebirds, bred […]
Nature is in crisis. This has been increasingly clear over recent years, and the United Kingdom State of Nature report published yesterday leaves no room for doubt. “The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth.“ “There is an urgent need to move towards nature-friendly land and sea use.“ The report states that […]
Chichester Harbour Conservancy is profoundly disappointed by the government’s regrettable decision to scrap nutrient neutrality legislation. The rules were part of the Habitats Regulations and required developers to mitigate against pollution added to the harbour through wastewater from new homes or run-off from building sites. Removing these protections is bad news for water quality and […]
Gates have recently been fitted on the jetty in Emsworth, owned by Chichester Harbour Conservancy, due to safety concerns. The jetty was installed to provide safe landing for boats visiting Emsworth and for tourists boarding harbour boat trips. Over the years there has been a steady increase in the use of the jetty by the […]
Chichester Harbour Conservancy has appointed an independent consultancy to produce a technical report into the sea defences from Langstone Millpond to Wade Lane. The consultants, Royal HaskoningDHV are experienced in coastal management solutions. The report will provide a detailed assessment of the sea defences and surrounding area and advise on their future management. Background Sections […]
Coastal grazing marsh is an important habitat within Chichester Harbour, but like many of our habitats it is under pressure. Independent consultants Royal Haskoning DHV have written a report on the future potential for this important habitat within the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Download the report here: What is Coastal Grazing Marsh? […]
In February 2023, CHaPRoN and three partner organisations successfully completed a saltmarsh restoration trial at West Itchenor. This was the first project to be delivered as part of the Solent Seascape Project – here is an update: Why restore Saltmarsh? Saltmarsh is a powerhouse when it comes to habitats, a coastal ecosystem that: The three […]
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Matt Briers CBE as Chief Executive of Chichester Harbour Conservancy from 25 April, following a competitive recruitment round. Matt had a distinguished 37-year career in the Royal Navy, serving as a warfare officer at sea and aviator in the Fleet Air Arm. As well as a range […]